Wives and Daughters

Molly Gibson, whose mother has long ago died, is brought up by her father Dr. Gibson. At the age of 17, Molly visits and immediately befriends the Hamleys, her neighbors, especially she and the youngest son Roger Hamley, studying in Cambridge, become good friends. This is when Dr. Gibson tells his daughter of his upcoming marriage to Hyacinth Kirkpatrick, a widower who also has a daughter around Mollys age, Cynthia.

Horrified that his secret is out, Osborne swears Molly to secrecy. While Roger urges Osborne to tell their father the truth. After the Easter Charity Ball, Cynthia falls into a decline.

Cynthia and Preston have a bitter row and Molly promises to help her escape from him.